Lenny Henry Stars in UK Tour of FENCES, Launching Tonight

Following his triumphant performance as Othello in the West End, Lenny Henry takes on one of the 20th century's most unforgettable characters in this New York Drama Critics', Tony and Pulitzer Prize winning drama, directed by Paulette Randall. The production opens tonight, 27th February 2013 at Theatre Royal Bath.

Lenny Henry plays Troy Maxson, a once gifted athlete denied his turn at the big time and now struggling through daily life in Pittsburgh. Resentful of a world he believes has denied him chances at every turn, he takes out his anger on a sports-obsessed son and his loyal wife.

Fences is one of the greatest American dramas of the 20th century. Set between the Korean and Vietnam wars, it is the story of a family trying to hold itself together and of what happens when a strong man is robbed of his dreams.

Paulette Randall has directed plays for the Royal Court and theatres throughout the UK, as well as television directing credits for the BBC and Channel 4. She is the former Artistic Director of Talawa Theatre Company and was an Associate Director of the London 2012 Olympics opening ceremony. This is the fifth August Wilson play she has directed.